Homes plan challenges landmark decision

PLANS to demolish a historic waterside Edwardian home in a Weybridge conservation area have resurfaced, shortly after previous applications for planning permission were dismissed in a “landmark decision”.

Arden, in Wey Road, backs on to the River Wey and campaigners fear a new detached house could dominate the historic River Wey Navigation.

The canal was designated a conservation area in 2002. It is one of the oldest man-made waterways in Britain and has great archaeological importance.

The latest application has attracted about 38 objections.

Three previous proposals, which were heard at appeal in May, amassed 100.

Planning inspector Jean Jones ruled: “The Wey Road houses backing on to the river are an important part of the setting of the conservation area because they adjoin its boundary and are in the foreground views from the towpath.”

Castleford Homes, submitting owners Mr and Mrs Burrell’s latest application, made changes to the original plans in September.

These include retaining the boathouse, altering the rear elevation, modifying the design at the back of the proposed property and replacing the triple garage with a double.

Some residents objected before the changes were submitted.

Others feel that although Castleford has taken some of the inspector’s comments on board, it does not go far enough.

Elmbridge Council planning officer Philip Andrews said he has not received any supporting letters. However, The National Trust River Wey & Godalming Navigation has withdrawn its objection.

Margaret and Guy Beringer live next door to Arden. Mrs Beringer was not surprised that there was another application.

She said: “They have taken notice of what people have said and tried to make the building smaller and more in keeping. One just wonders why they want to take it down in the first place.”

Mrs Beringer would like to see an extension or renovation rather than see Arden disappear for good.

“The problem is, once one house has been demolished it leaves the gate open for other properties when they come on the market, then we could have the same thing happen,” she said.

Colin Wooton, chairman of the Weybridge Conservation Area Advisory Committee for Elmbridge, was due to discuss the amended plans with the Weybridge Society as the News & Mail went to press.

He said: “We are pleased that the applicant is looking to retain the existing boat house.”

English Heritage has turned down proposals to group list Wey Road properties, including Arden. However, Elmbridge Council is due to review whether to extend some of the riverside gardens into the conservation area.

Gary Sharpe, managing director at Castleford Homes, said it has worked carefully to maintain the Edwardian character. He told the News & Mail the new version is smaller overall and further away from the river.

“The design that we have now is far more sympathetic to the street scene as far as the Edwardian period is concerned,” he said. “With the greatest respect, people like to see no change. I’m not going to be able to contend with that because a lot of people want to see the house remain as it is.

“What we have produced is a very sympathetic design. It will fit very well into the street scene.”

Mr Sharp said the council’s conservation area officer is happy with the design.